masonsaul

Phantom Thread is a consistently handsomely crafted picture about an incredibly complicated artist and his difficult yet still deeply romantic relationship that unfolds at a methodical pace. It's a funny, intentionally frustrating and kinda twisted watch which might be a bit too long however, it ultimately remains a rewarding experience thanks to a surprisingly satisfying ending considering all the conflict beforehand.

Daniel Day-Lewis is one of the best to ever do it and his unwavering commitment to the role is clear in every little detail of his brilliant performance. He also has a genuinely palpable chemistry with a fantastic Vicky Krieps as a complex character who is almost equally determined to get what she wants. Lesley Manville is a quiet presence throughout but makes her intimidating confidence very clear.

Paul Thomas Anderson's writing & direction is meticulous and since he acts as his own cinematographer here, it feels like a vision that's truly been fully realised. It's always gorgeous to look at with subtle camera movements, artfully composed framing and a rich grain in the images. Composer Jonny Greenwood brings a beautifully understated score that fits the precise tone and overall atmosphere instantly.

Tron: Legacy's plot and characters aren't very memorable but it remains an undeniable visual spectacle comfortably sustained by how consistently impressive the CGI and faultless production design is. Thankfully, it doesn't take long for the plot to get to The Grid and once it does the film has never ending exciting visuals worthy of their IMAX enhanced aspect ratio changes and engrossing worldbuilding that makes it easy to get swept up in.

Garrett Hedlund fits the generic leading man role well with a good combination of quips, charm and heart. Jeff Bridges gets two completely opposite roles and does great work in both despite the presentation of one of them working against his performance. Michael Sheen is having an absolute ball and quickly becomes a highlight even though his screen time is minimal. Olivia Wilde is a likeable presence even if the role is thankless.

Joseph Kosinski's really dynamic direction ensures this almost always looks absolutely stunning and has genuinely thrilling action sequences that feel substantial in length. It's just so polished with a seriously striking colour palette, complimented further by gorgeous visual effects that have aged gracefully apart from the uncanny de-aging which rarely looks good enough these days. Daft Punk's score is a perfect fit for a film as stylish as this.

A Big Bold Beautiful Journey is a heartfelt romantic drama with a fantastical presentation that's definitely stronger in its first half than the second. It feels longer than it actually is but its two leads, striking presentation and moving quotes about the importance of relationships is enough to keep it investing. The film gives its main characters a satisfying journey focusing on how they need to love themselves before they can love anyone else.

Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell have a fun rapport early on and it slowly gives way to a chemistry that's more vulnerable and emotionally open. The best scene comes from watching Colin Farrell's character revisiting his high school at a pivotal moment since it's where the film's high concept execution coheres the most. He also gets a beautiful scene with Hamish Linklater which is one of the most affecting moments.

Kogonada's direction is almost always colourful and clean with a skill for capturing some subtle details in the performances as well as the bigger reactions. It was a wise choice not to explain how any of this is happening too. Joe Hisaishi's wonderful score is comfortably the strongest element and the only way it could've been improved is if it was used a lot more frequently, even though all the needle drops are fine.